Exploring the Consequences of Sports Development among Students at Imam Ali (AS) Military University: A Phenomenological Study

Omidi, Hamid; Ghaedi, Ali; Zare Abandansari, Mohammad

doi:10.22098/rsmm.2025.17036.1464

Exploring the Consequences of Sports Development among Students at Imam Ali (AS) Military University: A Phenomenological Study

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Director of Physical Education Department of Imam Ali University

² Physical Education Department of Imam Ali University

³ Department of sports management, University of Mohaghegh Ardabili, Ardabil, Iran

10.22098/rsmm.2025.17036.1464

Abstract

Purpose, this study aims to identify the consequences of sports participation to inform the development of tailored physical education programs at Imam Ali (AS) Military University. The goal is to enhance students’ physical and psychological health and strengthen the university’s performance in national and international sports events. Therefore, the purpose of the research is to identify the consequences of sports development of students at Imam Ali (AS) Military University.

Method, this qualitative study employed a phenomenological approach to examine the lived experiences of students regarding sports development at Imam Ali (AS) Military University. Participants were selected using purposive sampling based on criteria such as at least five years of professional or academic experience in military sports or physical education. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step method, ensuring a rigorous and structured interpretation of the participants’ perspectives.

Results, The consequences of sports development among students at Imam Ali (AS) Military University encompass 104 conceptual codes, systematically classified into eight overarching thematic categories: physical development, psychological enhancement, academic advancement, institutional improvement, social integration, cultural enrichment, economic impact, and military preparedness.

Conclusion, integrating sports within the university’s strategic plan can foster the development of well-rounded military professionals. This research highlights the transformative role of sports in military education and emphasizes the need for institutional commitment to long-term sports development.

Keywords